Geelong Gallery appoints new Director & CEO

The Board of Geelong Gallery is thrilled to announce today that Humphrey Clegg has been appointed as the next Gallery Director & CEO, following the departure of Director & CEO, Jason Smith, to the Art Gallery of South Australia on 21 February 2025.

Humphrey Clegg brings an incredible wealth of experience in the visual arts sector, with a distinguished career in the arts industry, where he is highly regarded for his leadership, fundraising and curatorial expertise.

Geelong Gallery President, Eliza Holt, in announcing Humphrey’s appointment, states:

‘After a rigorous search, the Board is delighted to announce that Humphrey Clegg will be the next Director & CEO of Geelong Gallery. Humphrey’s vision for the Gallery and his proven ability to fundraise for transformational projects makes him an outstanding choice to lead the Gallery into its next chapter.’

Humphrey will join Geelong Gallery from the Art Gallery of Ballarat, where he has served as Assistant Director – Engagement since 2021. During his tenure, he has led major initiatives that significantly increased visitation, secured substantial funding for programming and collection development, and forged partnerships with leading institutions both in Australia and internationally. With over two decades of experience in the arts and cultural sector, Humphrey’s background includes senior roles at the National Gallery of Victoria, where he worked for 15 years, and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.

On his appointment, Humphrey expressed his enthusiasm: ‘Geelong Gallery is one of the finest in the country, and it is a great privilege to play a leadership role in its next, exciting phase.’

Humphrey will officially commence his role as Director & CEO of Geelong Gallery on Monday 7 April 2025.

-ENDS-